The American frontiersman was often known as a marksman when it came to the use of his gun. One reason was because he was always in practice. He had to be! His life, as well as the family’s meat supplier, often depended on it. So with desperation he stalked his prey with a “now or never” attitude, realizing that after one shot it would take several minutes to reload and by then it would be too late.
However, today’s hunter does not go out with the same concentrated desperation because he carries a repeating gun that almost guarantees that if he misses the first time he may have several more shots. Therefore, he is apt to develop a careless attitude and not use well his first opportunity. So often this becomes a philosophy of life. Some live carelessly, supposing they have innumerable days and years before them and can always make up tomorrow what was missed today. Life would be more meaningful if we would abide by the philosophy of the frontiersman and pretend that we have only one day to live and must therefore make the most of it.
This actually is the way God teaches us to live in (Mt 6:34; Heb 3:13). So with one day to use, let us be careful to use it to God’s glory. Let us be loving, forgiving, kind, responsive, active and faithful. This will help to make all of our days happy and meaningful, and those who know us will be grateful for our relationship and example.